The Australian NextGen U21 side have fallen to New Zealand 43-10 at One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch on Saturday.
A double to winger Lily Gillett wasn’t enough as the Kiwis ran away with victory despite a spirited Australian performance to close out the international season.
It was a history-making clash in New Zealand with the U21 fixture played between both nations for the first time, allowing Australia’s new talent the opportunity to play at an elite level.
Wallaroos flyhalf Waiaria Ellis and winger Amelia Whitaker played their hand in Gillett’s first try, with the pair combining to send the Manly junior over in the corner.
New Zealand’s flamboyance with the ball in hand troubled the Australians, however, to set up a 19-5 lead before adding to the scoreboard shortly after the break.
Allana Sikimeti got through 70 minutes in a strong showing from the Wallaroos prop, making a linebreak in the second half and playing a dominant role in the middle.
The boot of Faitala Moleka got the Australians out of jail on a number of occasions while Piper Simons got further valuable game time at scrumhalf.
Wallaroos back-rowers Lily Bone and Ruby Anderson led from the front to play full minutes for the side.
Australia NextGen U21 Head Coach Iliseva Batisabaga said the fixture was a success and looked forward to more opportunities in the future.
“It wasn't the result we were after but great exposure to the international arena for our young players and a lot of it came down to connection on the day,” Batibasaga said.
“The more time and opportunities the girls have like this they will become better.
“Moving forward as the women's program evolves in Australia hopefully there’s more matches between Australia and New Zealand at this level.
“It can only make us stronger.”
With the support of the Australian Rugby Foundation through the generosity of donors, the inaugural NextGen XVs program debuted at both under 16 and under 19 levels throughout September and October.
Through extended donor support, this fixture was made a reality.
